Variations of value exercises

The Line

The line exercise aims to encourage people to actively stand by their opinions. This exercise enables them to express more nuanced and well-considered choices.

Place numbers on the floor (e.g. one to six), such that one and six represent contradicting views. The line then represents the range of opinions between these two marginal views. An example value statement could be: 1) I find it very easy to talk with my parents about my future vs. 6) I find it very difficult to talk with to my parents about my future. Numbers 2 to 5 then represent the positions in between. The numbers can also represent level of agreement – so that 1 means totally and 6 means totally disagree.

There must be no middle/centre in this exercise; the participants will always have to choose between 3 or 4. Give the participants a short time for reflection before asking them to place themselves at the same time along the line of numbers. They will then share their motivations for choosing their position with the people standing next to them. Finally, they will share with the whole group. (Byréus 1992).

The Hot Chairs or Hands-up

This exercise gives the participants an opportunity to stand by their views, and draw their interest in a topic. The participants are seated on chairs in a circle. The joker has a paper with different statements they have chosen which are relevant to the group. The joker presents a statement, and if someone agrees with a statement, he/she stands up and changes chair with a person who also agrees. To remain seated indicates a participant either disagrees or needs more time for reflection.

After each statement, participants are given the opportunity to explain why they rose or remained seated. If there are some dominant members within the group, it might be a good idea to let individuals demonstrate their views by raising hands. Some jokers might suggest to participants to close their eyes, so that they are not influenced by others. (Byréus 1992).